Morning Report: local papers

Wednesday's headlines: mortgage rates tipped as likely to stay low for longer; AMI stadium in Christchurch to need 'unprecedented' repairs; and 'Toddlers in Tiaras' coming to New Zealand next June.

NZ Herald

The front page of The New Zealand Herald is dominated by the London riots, with a large picture of blazing ruins and a masked and hooded looter.

The story goes to the worst-affected suburbs, including Croydon, where residents were ordered to leave their homes because of the danger from fire.

The only other story on the front page is that of West Auckland teenager Jess Hosking, whose dream OE was cut tragically short with her sudden, and as yet unexplained death, in Paris.

Dominion Post

The Dominion Post leads with the markets: it quotes a leading funds manager who says KiwiSavers should be protected from the worst of the bloodbath currently wiping billions from the value of New Zealand shares.

The paper also tips a possible silver lining for homeowners, with mortgage rates now likely to stay low for longer.

And there's a look at the culture of 'Toddlers in Tiaras' beauty pageants, with news that Wellington may host an American-style beauty contest for dolled-up children.

It says the Universal Royalty franchise plans to bring its show to New Zealand for the first time next June.

The Press

The Press has extensive coverage of news that AMI stadium will need 'unprecedented' repairs, while the entire Hadlee Stand is to be demolished.

There's coverage of a legal dispute between the paper and Christchurch City Council. The Press says Christchurch's draft central city plan is being withheld by the council, in breach of the law, so it can better 'manage' its release.

And there's more on the London riots, including a piece from Christchurch based former Londoner Charley Mann, who is worried about family and friends back home.

ODT

The Otago Daily Times reports up to 34 jobs could be affected at the Otago Conservancy office in Dunedin if the Department of Conservation adopts a cost-cutting proposal.

Dunedin City Council is dipping into other budgets to cover a $250,000 shortfall to cover expenses for Rugby World Cup festivities.